How egg cell energy affects the aging of embryos
Official title: Oocyte mitochondrial activity regulates embryo telomere reprogramming
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10881074 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the health of a mother, especially if she's overweight, can affect the DNA protection in her babies, which might influence their health and aging as they grow up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $513,019 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD111435-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881074 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include women of reproductive age, particularly those who are obese or have a history of obesity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not planning to conceive or those without concerns related to maternal obesity may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial activity in egg cells and its impact on the reprogramming of telomeres in embryos. Telomeres, which protect our DNA, can influence health and longevity, and this study aims to understand how maternal obesity affects telomere length in offspring. By using advanced techniques, the researchers will explore the molecular mechanisms that allow for telomere elongation during early embryo development, particularly in a nonhuman primate model. The findings could provide insights into how maternal health can shape the aging process of future generations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving the health and longevity of children born to obese mothers.
How similar studies have gone: This research builds on previous findings that link maternal health to offspring outcomes, suggesting a promising area of investigation that has shown potential in related studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hennebold, Jon D — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Hennebold, Jon D
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.